Published May 27, 2016

13 Restaurants In New York To Get Mexican Food That Will Blow Your Mind

Published May 27, 2016

Written by

Updated Oct 23, 2024

The Most Whimsical Restaurant in New York Belongs on Your Bucket List

A place you'll come to visit time and time again, Maureen's Kitchen restaurant is one that undoubtedly belongs on your dining bucket list.

Updated Oct 23, 2024

Written by

Lea Monroe

In New York, we love stumbling upon a new restaurant we've yet to try. To top it off, it's all the more special once we uncover a great breakfast spot that gives us the perfect start to our day. Right within the beautiful small town of Smithtown, Maureen's Kitchen NY will have you saying, "Holy Cow!" A place you'll come to visit time and time again, this whimsical restaurant undoubtedly belongs on your dining bucket list. After all, it's one of the best Long Island restaurants for breakfast and lunch.

A family-run business that many of us have been visiting for nearly 30 years since it first opened in 1985, this Suffolk County Gem has a unique theme. As soon as you arrive, you'll notice that this restaurant carries out its cow theme in every charming way imaginable.

A cow sculpture protrudes from the gable of a white barn with black shingles and windows. — Gail Frederick/Flickr

And you'll also be quick to notice that the playful restaurant wants to make you feel at home in the best ways possible. In fact, it's one of the best family-friendly restaurants in Smithtown that kids and adults alike absolutely love.

Cow enthusiasts who are looking to take a piece of Maureen's home with them can check out the ceramic cows that they have for sale and other merchandise. And from the seats to the mugs, you'll find that most of Maureen's decor is made up of cow-print and rustic charm.

A coffee mug with "Maureen's Kitchen" sits on a table, with a man in the background and drinks nearby. — Gail Frederick/Flickr

Only open during the first half of the day starting at 7 a.m., Maureen's fills up quickly (especially on weekends) with loyal customers and returning friendly faces.

So what are some famous dishes that have captured the hearts of those who have eaten here? Let's suggest the decadent Pistachio Pancakes for starters!

Any time of the year, you can find seasonal and holiday dishes added to the menu. For example, if it's around St. Patrick's Day why not kick things off with the unusual green food items on the menu? While green pancakes may not have been what you originally had in mind for breakfast, you won't regret trying this unique breakfast item!

Another dish that wins over the bellies of Maureen's customers? The perfected homemade baked oatmeal! What better way to start off your day than with a dish of scrumptious homemade oatmeal and a glass of warm milk? The baked oatmeal recipe has been in the family for several generations and has long been a favorite to those who have made Maureen's their second home. Served in either a cup or a bowl, I suggest you order a bowl because it's that good!

And if you still haven't been won over yet with these amazing menu items, you'll absolutely love feasting on the Croissant French toast! The Croissant French toast comes in a variety of flavors, like cream cheese and raspberry preserves, which will have your stomach rumbling. Oozing with unforgettable flavors that you'll wish you could eat every morning, these croissants are unlike anything you've ever tasted.

Those who have never been to Maureen's and are looking to try something a bit more classic and simple can try diving into their amazing pancakes that you can top off with treats like Oreos, blueberries, chocolate chips, and more.

While Maureen's is always adding new items to their menu and there are daily specials offered, it's the unforgettable and unique dishes that always keep people coming back for more. Those dining in the restaurant will be able to see their homemade dishes coming to life from behind the bar area where you'll find customers eating at the tabletop taking everything in.

Who's ready to head out to Suffolk County to enjoy a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience that you'll fall head over heels for?

A plate with a cheese omelet, bacon, and a glass of water, with another plate of food in the background. — Gail Frederick/Flickr

The theme of Maureen's Kitchen NY comes from the family's heritage of owning a cow farm up in the town of Callicoon which is one of the region's most beloved restaurants. The restaurant moved to its current location back in 1997 and has continually been drawing in crowds ever since. With friendly service, homemade food, and a whimsical theme that brings a smile to customers' faces, it's hard not to see why people love this place so much. It's truly one of the most whimsical restaurants in NY.

Keep in mind that Maureen's is a cash-only restaurant, so make sure you visit an ATM before you arrive. To view the menus, see additional Maureen's Kitchen photos, and for updates, follow the official Facebook page of Maureen's Kitchen.

Do you have a whimsical restaurant that you love to visit and would love for us to write about it? Tell us all about it when you fill out this nomination form!

For other unique dining experiences, check out this One Quirky Restaurant in New York That's Impossible Not to Love! And if you want to do something fun like a food tour, take a look at the Long Island North Fork Sights, Bites & Flights: Full-Day Tour or the Half-Day Tour, and book a reservation on Viator! These adventures include alcoholic beverages, tea or coffee, and dinner.

Food

Published Aug 31, 2024

The Unique Restaurant In New York Where Every Order Comes With A Free Plate Of Fried Dough

Published Aug 31, 2024

Written by

Raymond Goldfield

Going to a restaurant and looking at the menu prices can be a stressful affair these days - everything seems to be going up and up! That's why I'm always on the lookout for a restaurant that provides a little something extra to really make it worth a splurge - and I found exactly that at Da Nico Ristorante. Founded in 1993 but feeling every bit like a century-old Little Italy red sauce joint, this classic Italian restaurant serves up a full menu of pasta, pizza, and Italian signatures in a swanky but casual environment where you'll feel perfectly at home. But there's one big surprise that isn't on the menu - a delicious dessert that comes with every meal completely free of charge! That's enough to make this maybe the most unique Italian restaurant in NYC, and the perfect antidote to a budget pinch. Read on to discover why Da Nico Ristorante belongs on your New York dining bucket list!

Da Nico Ristorante has been a Little Italy institution for over thirty years, and it's going strong with a few surprises up its sleeve.

Exterior of Da Nico Ristorante, featuring a red awning and outdoor seating, with a fire escape above. — Douglas Tate/Google Local

This is the kind of neighborhood joint that caters to both locals and tourists, serving Italian classics but not afraid to experiment a little.

A cozy restaurant interior with reserved seating signs, tables set for dining, and a musician performing in the background. — Kiariladyboss/Google Local

The pizzas here are top-notch, as you'd expect - about fifteen varieties are available, ranging from a classic Margherita to the spicy Pizza Picante.

A person is preparing to eat a pizza topped with arugula and cheese, with a side dish of pasta in the foreground. — Christian Franco/Google Local

As important as the pizza at any Italian restaurant, the pastas are delicious. We're partial to the pillowy gnocchi with fresh Mozzarella in a marinara sauce.

A plate of gnocchi in a rich tomato sauce, garnished with herbs, served on a white dish. — John Almaraz/Google Local

For those who have a heartier appetite, a selection of meat and fish entrees are offered - including some impressive specials.

A plate of meat with a bone, topped with cheese and mushrooms, served with greens and drinks on a table. — Cesar Pereyra/Google Local

But don't fill up too much, and don't be too quick to order dessert - there's a plate of fried dough coming your way!

A plate of powdered sugar-dusted pastries, arranged in a casual pile on a white plate. — Crystal Wu/Google Local

This take on the classic carnival treat, topped with powdered sugar, is a beloved New York tradition included with every meal - and it's completely free and delicious.

A plate of golden, powdered sugar-dusted pastries arranged neatly. — Yi Gu/Google Local

But okay, now it's time to look at the dessert menu - because the tiramisu here is delicious as well!

A slice of dessert with layers, drizzled with chocolate sauce and garnished with a mint leaf on a white plate. — Jose Kattenberg/Google Local

Have you dined at Da Nico Ristorante in Little Italy? Did you enjoy the free fried dough at this unique Italian restaurant in NYC? Let us know in the comments section! You can see the full menu on the Da Nico website, and follow the Da Nico Facebook page for announcements of the latest specials. While you're in the area, make sure to shop at Di Palo's Fine Foods for some of the most authentic Italian goods in the city. If you need a place to stay in the area, PUBLIC is located only a few blocks away and gets high marks as a luxury hotel with two on-site restaurants and some stunning decor.

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13 Restaurants In New York To Get Mexican Food That Will Blow Your Mind

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The Most Whimsical Restaurant in New York Belongs on Your Bucket List

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The Unique Restaurant In New York Where Every Order Comes With A Free Plate Of Fried Dough

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All Stories

The Most Iconic View in South Carolina Is Also a Stunning Slice of History

The Completely Free Natural Attraction Hiding in a Wyoming Park Is a Must-Visit

This Natural Wonder in Idaho Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

The Best Apple Cider in Alaska Comes From This Award-Winning Hard Cidery

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Oregon’s Most Charming Small Towns